How to Transfer a Domain from One Web Host to Another

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How to Migrate a Domain Name to other Host?

Intended to develop a professional site? The selection and registration of a great domain name is one of the initial steps. Popular names are usually snatched, and you should move fast. With a fast domain name search, you can find out whether your desired name is free or not or it is already taken by another party and you may even purchase it.

In other cases, you may also wish to move your domain, perhaps your current host is not fast enough, you have had security problems or you just received a better offer elsewhere.

Whichever be the reason, it is important to know how to migrate a domain name to other host. This guide will make the whole process easier in order to migrate your domain in a safe and efficient way.

What is a Domain Transfer?

The transfer of your domain name to a different registrar is termed as a domain transfer. Under the ICANN regulations, you are only allowed to transfer a domain in case:

That the domain was created at least 60 days ago.
That the domain is not within the last 60 days transferred by another registrar.
Make sure that the information on the registrant (owner) of the domain is accurate and well presented in the who.is.
Make sure that the e-mail address of the owner or administrative contact is valid and is an address which can be accessed.

The Need of Domain Transfer?

The owners of websites tend to switch to different providers due to the increased cost of renewing the domain or due to poor customer service, performance, or just to have all the domains under a single provider.

Domain Transfer Guide:

Step 1: Eligibility Check Domain Transfer.

Before you begin, make sure:

Your domain is more than 60 days old.
It has not been transferred within the past 60 days.
Your WHOIS records are accurate with regard to registrant (owner) information.
Your email address of administration is valid and is available.

Step 2: Unlock Your Domain Name

Domains are default locked to avoid unauthorized transfers. You need to unlock it:

Access the registrar administrative interface.
Choose the domain to be transferred.
Go to Settings and switch the lock OFF.
Save changes.

In case you do not have the access to the administration, then ask the support team of your registrar to unlock it.

Step 3: Obtaining the Authorization Code (EPP Key)

Transfers require the authorization code (also known as Auth Code or EPP Key).

Log in and select the Settings tab and request the authorization code.
It will be emailed to your registered administrator email address – normally immediately but at most within 24 hours.
In case you are unable to get into your account, request your registrar to provide the EPP code to you.

Step 4: Transfer with Your New Registrar.

Now that you are unlocked in your domain and you have the authorization code:

Provide the code to your new hosting company.
The transfer process will be initiated by the provider.
You will get a confirmation mail on your administrative email.
After you have approved it, your previous registrar will release the domain.

The transfer normally requires 4-5 days. Once this is done, your new registrar will renew the validity of your domain by one year (included in the transfer fee).

Key Rules of a Successful Domain Change.

Copy your site and data: The migration will only move your domain, but not the content of your site or mail.

Check add-ons: SSL certificates, emails and DNS settings are some of the services that need to be reconfigured with your new host.

Plan ahead: It is always important to plan before making the transfer so that it does not affect the uptime of your site by making sure that the backup and DNS settings are ready.

Free migration: Majority of hosting providers will offer free migration of websites including domain transfer.

Domain Transfer Checklist in a Flash.

Domain older than 60 days
Correct WHOIS information
Valid admin email
Domain unlocked
Code of authorization (EPP) received.
New registrar details ready

Conclusion:

The process of transferring a domain name can be technical, but once you are familiar with the procedure, then it can be easily done. By unlocking your domain, authorization code and authorization of the transfer you can transfer your domain to a new host without any downtime easily.

It does not matter whether you change because of the cost or performance or the improved services, this process will help to keep your website alive and secure.

We do the domain transfers at NetForChoice, and it is easy and hassle free. Our digital identity is safely maintained with the help of experts, free migration, and trusted hosting options.

Start Your Domain Transfer Now